How to choose and order a space heater online

September 22, 2026 ยท 6 min read

Illustration of a frosty window with icicles and falling snow, warm socks hanging on a line and gentle heat rising

Pennsylvania winters bring plenty of cold days, and some rooms never quite warm up. A portable heater is an efficient way to stay comfortable in the room you're using. Here's what to consider before ordering one online.

Size the heater to the room

Most portable heaters use up to 1,500 watts, which can add comfortable warmth to a room of about 150 square feet. For larger rooms or drafty spaces, consider an infrared model, which warms people and objects directly.

Know your options

Heater typeWhy choose itKeep in mind
Ceramic fanQuick heat, small and portableProduces some fan noise
InfraredQuiet, steady warmth for larger roomsOften larger in size
Oil-filled radiatorSilent, long-lasting heatTakes time to warm up

Insist on safety features

  • Tip-over protection
  • Overheat shut-off
  • Cool-touch casing for homes with kids or pets
  • UL, ETL or similar safety certification

Use it safely

  • Plug the heater directly into a wall outlet, never an extension cord or power strip.
  • Keep it at least three feet from anything that can burn.
  • Switch it off when you leave the room or go to bed.
  • Test your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors at the start of winter.

Delivery and tracking

  • Standard shipping: 3 to 5 business days, free on orders over $50.
  • Express shipping: 2 business days when you order by 1 pm Eastern Time.
  • A tracking link is emailed as soon as your order ships.

When it arrives

Check the heater, cord and plug for damage and keep the box for a few weeks. If there's a problem, contact us within 7 days for a free replacement or refund. Unused heaters can be returned within 30 days; see our returns policy.

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